Church Documents

A collection of what we feel are some of the most helpful teachings from the Catholic Church which pertain to the work of pharmacists. While it is not the type of literature pharmacists typically read, these documents provide some theological background for Catholic teachings to achieve clarity on why the Church holds them as the truth for our lives and the lives of our patients.

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ERDs

The 2018 ERDs are the Ethical and Religious Directives which are provided by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). They are a great starting place to learn how authentic Catholic healthcare is provided.

Evangelium Vitae

"The Gospel of Life", an encyclical from Saint Pope John Paul II in 1995. It provides a foundation for understanding the Christian perspective on human life, its value and our duty to preserve, respect, love, and serve it.

Humanae Vitae

"Of Human Life", an encyclical from Pope Pius the VI in 1965. A controversial document, it describes the Catholic Church's stance on family planning and reproductive issues.

Salvifici Doloris

"On the Christian Meaning of Human Suffering", an encyclical from Saint Pope John Paul II in 1984. It describes the dignity and saving power of suffering, diving into this important mystery of human life.

Theology of the Body

The collection of a 129 lecture series given by Saint Pope John Paul II between 1979-1984 which analyzes human sexuality, interprets the significance of the body, and speaks on its sexual differentiation and complementarity.

Dignitatis Humane

"Of The Dignity of the Human Person", this document from the Second Vatican Council released in 1965 explains the church's stance on religious liberty and Catholic social teaching. It touches on the role of conscience as well.

Lumen Gentium

"The Light of the Nations", one of the principle documents produced by the Second Vatican Council. It's broad scope includes talking about the mystery that is God's Church, his people, and the universal call to holiness.

Veritatis Splendor

"The Splendor of the Truth", an encyclical from Saint Pope John Paul II lays the fundamental background for the Church's role in moral teaching. Released in 1993, it is a comprehensive discussion of Catholic moral theological tradition.

COVID-19 Vaccines

Created in 2020 by the USCCB from the Committee on Pro-Life Activities, this document discusses the ethical implications of COVID-19 vaccines to help guide Catholics in their decision regarding vaccination.

Address to Pharmacists

Pope Benedict XVI spoke directly to the International Congress of Catholic Pharmacists in 2007, with several calls to action within their field. A short address, however it is filled with many important issues Catholic pharmacists face.